Jorge Jesus said he left Cristiano Ronaldo off Portugal’s lineup for Sunday’s victory over Norway, a puzzling call against Erling Haaland’s side in Oslo. Ronaldo watched the whole match from the bench while Goncalo Ramos netted the decisive goal.
“It wasn’t the right moment to bring Ronaldo on; it was a tactical call. I needed a different type of player, but that doesn’t close the door on him,” Jesus explained, stressing the move addressed this specific clash rather than his overall role.
Jesus also hinted at a quick comeback, stating, “Maybe he’ll feature against Denmark“. The veteran could be back when Portugal meets Denmark on October 1.
With Portugal perched on six points from two games, the manager seems at ease rotating his attack as the Nations League window unfolds.
Jesus’ gamble paid off as Ramos delivered the winner.
Any speculation about resting Ronaldo in such a high‑profile game vanished when Ørjan Nyland‘s error gave Goncalo Ramos a clear chance, and his strike secured the win. Trusting Ramos over Ronaldo proved sound as Portugal left Oslo with all three points.
Why did Cristiano Ronaldo start on the bench for Portugal against Norway in the 2026‑27 Nations League?
The result fuels Jesus’ belief in squad depth, proving Portugal can win away without relying solely on Ronaldo against tough opponents like Norway.